Revised May 9th 2022

There is a wide variety of skin conditions (mycoses) caused by various strains of a fungus called Tinea. Another name commonly used for this condition is "ringworm", because of the appearance of the resulting rash. This name is a misnomer, since the rash is actually caused by a type of fungus (dermatophyte). In general, these microbes prefer warm, moist areas that are protected from air and light. All types of tinea are contagious and are easily passed from one individual to another. With tinea, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

What is Ringworm?

Although the ringworm rash can appear anywhere on the body, it tends to be found in skin creases and other areas that are prone to hold moisture. Ringworm presents with red itchy skin, burning pain, and even small blisters. The rash often forms as a ring of darker red around the outside and a lighter, less inflamed area in the middle. Some people may even experience a darkening of the skin in the area.

Athlete's Foot - Tinea Pedis

The most common type of tinea is called tinea pedis, also known as athlete’s foot. As the name suggests, it is commonly found on feet however the infection can spread to the palms and between the fingers. Tinea pedis is commonly seen on athlete’s since wearing moist, closed-in shoes for a prolonged period of time is the highest risk factor for developing it. This is why the condition is also called athlete’s foot. Tinea is also passed between people in pools and communal showers because of the favorable warm and moist conditions.

Jock Itch- Tinea Cruris

When tinea infection occurs the groin area, it is most commonly caused by tinea cruris. It most commonly affects men and adolescent boys, and is triggered by friction from clothing and prolonged moisture in the groin area, often due to sweating. In this case the rash is located in the groin, thigh skin folds and around the anus. Failing to wash athletic cups and swimwear frequently enough can lead to an ongoing infection.

Fungal Nail Infection- Type of Fungus

Scratching at ringworm (tinea) infections on other areas of the body can cause the fungus to infect the nails. It is also common for athlete's foot to spread to the toenails. Getting manicures or pedicures with unclean spa tools is another common source of infection. When this occurs, the nails become brittle and sometimes can even crumble. If the infection continues, the nails can begin to grow in differently and can appear irregular, and thicken.

Scalp Infection- Tinea of Capitis

The tinea that most commonly infects the scalp is called tinea capitis. It most commonly affects children, although it can affect people of any age. Tinea is highly contagious and is easily passed by sharing combs, hats, or clothing. Interestingly, this particular infection can also be spread by infected pets. The infected area is red and itchy like other tinea infections, but tinea capitis also causes a circular bald spot wherever it occurs.

What is Prevention and Treatment for Ringworm?

Prevention of Ringworm

Wear loose-fitting, breathable, cotton clothing, and well-ventilated shoes as much as possible. Make sure to keep the skin clean and dry and be sure to change clothing as much as necessary to maintain skin dryness, especially in high-risk areas. Wash skin with soap and water, and make sure to dry thoroughly afterwards.

Always wear protective footwear in public showers or pools, such as sandals or flip-flops to reduce exposure. Wash and dry skin thoroughly after swimming, bathing, or sweating. Do not share clothing or towels. Avoid wearing clothing that rubs and irritates the affected area. Keeping the immune system in peak shape also helps to prevent infections in the skin. For more information, please see our Immune System article.

Testing for Fungal Infection

Most fungal infections can be tested for by skin culture or by using a skin KOH test. A simple scraping is taken from the affected area and checked for the presence of fungal spores. There is a lamp called a Wood's lamp that can be used to diagnose fungal scalp infection. In some cases a skin biopsy may also be necessary.

Conventional Treatment of Ringworm

There are a wide variety of over-the-counter antifungal powders or creams that are used to help control fungal infection. Most of these will contain medications like tolnaftate or ones that end in -azole. If you choose to use these medications, be sure to continue treatment at least one week after all symptoms have resolved to prevent recurrence.

Natural Treatment for Ringworm

Be sure to follow the prevention methods listed above. Wash affected area thoroughly with soap and water at least twice daily. Be sure to dry the area carefully and completely. Be careful to use a fresh towel for each washing, and do not reuse any clothing during this time to prevent reinfection. A number of natural products can be used topically to help treat the infection, the most common of which is Tea Tree oil, although some people use oregano oil, and others use colloidal silver.

For more information, please see our Tea Tree, Oregano, and Colloidal Silver articles. Topical treatment may need to be continued for several weeks to ensure complete eradication of the infection. Wash hands thoroughly after touching any infected skin. For more information on preventing transmission, please see our Skin Infections article.